To My Daughter On Her Fifth Birthday {Karina}

Can we raise a glass of orange juice to making it through this year together? It sure has been a wild ride filled with more emotions than you and I ever knew possible. But we’re getting there, child. You, me, and daddy. We’re finding our way through the wires of your beautiful brain, and figuring out just what we need to do to help you thrive.

Today you are five.

This year has been full of so many appointments, and for that, I’m sorry. Evaluations, a diagnoses we’re still making sense of, weekly trips to occupational therapy and speech. Tear-filled school drop-offs and post-school rages that left me questioning myself. Some days I ask God why He entrusted you into my care. Other days, it’s evident: I was made to be your mom and you were made to be my little rock star.

Thankfully, there has been so many incredibly joyful moments, too.

Your ability to make others laugh is remarkable. We love hearing you ask which words rhyme or asking us for “tomato chips” {potato} and alligator {Gatorade}. You get sarcasm, and everyone loves hearing your daily “I gotta tell you something…” stories, which always tell of some shenanigans. The adults that take the time to get to know you find you hilarious. For being such a little peanut, you sure have a big personality.

Keep the laughs coming, girlfriend. It’s going to get you through a lot of tough times.

Only you would pass out on the couch in winter gear and hillbilly teeth!

Another stand-out quality that has really jumped out this year is your ability to never shy away from hard work — whether it’s sitting down to practice your letters or helping me feed the kitty or empty the dishwasher. Sometimes I pay you $1 to help me with larger tasks, other times you do it before I even ask. I appreciate your help SO much, and you know those winks when I say you’re my best helper are true 😉

You’ve wanted to be a police officer since you could talk, and I can already see why that would be an amazing profession for you. You love helping others and thrive with structure. Shoot for the stars, little lady. I have no doubt you will rock whatever path you choose in life.

On that note — you love anything physical, whether it’s bike riding, wrestling or obstacle courses. This summer you’ve discovered karate and it has done wonders for your growth and confidence. I beam with pride each time you take a stripe test and stand in front of your class to show your moves like it’s no big deal. You don’t care what anyone thinks, and I pray daily you keep that amazing quality. {*clap*clap* “You rock”}

I also have so many fond memories of you dancing this year. For being a gal who hates loud noises, you LOVE heavy metal and rock n’ roll, just like your dad. I’ll never forget channel surfing and seeing you bop around happily to Marilyn Manson’s Beautiful People. Shoot, as long as the lyrics are clean, you are free to rock out to whatever you darn well please. We support you. {I’m still looking for a heavy metal yoga class for us!}

One of my favorite sweet things about you is the insane amount of affection you crave. Your monkey hugs, with your legs wrapped around me, give me life. When I ask how hugs make you feel, you’ll say it feels like little hearts walking all over your body. You have a way with putting things in such a simple and thoughtful way we adore.

Your siblings are your world. You fight with them often, but at the end of the day, you love them with all your being, and I know you would do anything to defend them.

Four has been tough in many ways, but so full of love and laughter. Let’s keep up the great teamwork we are finding together. I have no doubt it’s going to be a great year ahead as you enter full day “big school” as a begindergartner.

You truly are an orchid child. Your environment is fragile and sensitive at times, but given the right mix, you thrive. Please be patient as we learn how to care for you in the best way possible.

Bloom where you are planted, my love, and we’ll do our best to give you optimal conditions.

Ahhh!!! I’m so happy I just happen to stumble upon your blog!! I miss you guys tons already!!! You are a wonderful mom with an amazing personality!! I’m so happy I was able to spend the last few years with you guys!! Best wishes! I’ll be checking in on this! It’s amazing

Awww, Miss Natalie!!! We miss you so much already too…Every time we are in the direction of Leaps the kids ask if we are going to visit you. We will definitely be in touch. Thanks for having such a wonderful impact on Karina the past few years! xox